Understanding nonverbal communication and body language is a very important part of the work environment. Effective communication is essential in today's workplace. Functions, forms and cultural differences will help make communication more effective. "Studies show that you words account for only 7% of the messages you convey. The remaining 93% is nonverbal. 55% of communication is based on what people see and the other 38% is transmitted through tone of voice." Ramsey (2005). This paper will help you understand body language at work and how people must be aware of the messages they send through body language. I will describe the functions and the forms of body language, such as eye contact, posture and appearance. Cultural differences and misconceptions will also be addressed, which may lead to misinterpreted meanings.

Functions of nonverbal communications

Body language is overlooked in today's world. The messages that can be sent by body language are overlooked.

Illustration showing fashion throughout the centur...

Communication

"Jealousy and Flirtation" depicts a woman jealous ...

Body language, if noticed, leaves a lasting impression and you only get one chance to make a first impression. As noted before, 55% of communication is based on what people see. Hand gestures tell a lot about the message you are trying to get across. According to Helenius (2000), "In the United States, for example, the "OK" hand gesture conveys enthusiasm or approval of a business associate's suggestion. But flash that sign in France, where it's synonymous with "zero" or "worthless," and your business counterpart might be tempted to close up shop and go home. The same goes in Brazil, where the "OK" sign has prurient significance and is considered vulgar." People are unaware of the messages they are sending to reinforce and accentuate the message they are sending through body language. Waving goodbye as you leave or pass someone is considered body language. Your facial expressions...

More Communication Studies essays:

First impressions are very important! Within seconds of a new encounter we are evaluated. The other party appraises our visual and behavioral appearances from head to toe. They observe our demeanor, mannerisms, body language and even our grooming and accessories. With every new encounter, we are ...

Introduction Communication which includes body movements, such as gestures, facial expressions, eye movements, and postures is known as body language, it is a very personal way of expressing yourself without words. One's body language can carry a whole conversation without even saying a word. Sign ...

... states that when it comes to expressing feelings: 55% of the communication consists of body language, 38% is expressed through tone of voice, and only 7% is communicated through words. If this is the case we express 93% of our feelings in a nonverbal way! Body language ...

... of sending and receiving wordless messages can be conveyed through the means of facial expressions, gazes, postures, movements, and tone of voice, as well as grooming habits, body positioning, and choice of attire. Each of us gives and responds to literally thousands of nonverbal ...

... of our bodies, "and nonverbal behaviors reinforce each other." You can find that people difficultly use one part of the body to express an intense feeling (Seal, 1997, p.136). Sometimes we use the body language to "supplement" our verbal communication ...

... communication skill is body language , a very personal way of expressing yourself without words. One's body language can carry a whole conversation without even saying a word. Sign language is an excellent example of this, one can spend there whole life communicating only with there body ...

3 pages6804Jan/19963.9

Students & Profs. say about us:

"Good news: you can turn to other's writing help. WriteWork has over 100,000 sample papers"